SportsTravel Magazine caught up with Amanda Shank and Wade Martin about the recent launch of Unrivaled Sports.

In a groundbreaking move that’s reshaping the youth sports landscape, Josh Harris and David Blitzer, founders of Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE), have launched Unrivaled Sports. This new venture is rapidly becoming a powerhouse in the youth sports industry, with strategic acquisitions and a vision to create unparalleled experiences for young athletes and their families.

Key Highlights of Unrivaled Sports:

1. Strategic Acquisitions:
   • Ripken Baseball
   • YTH Sports (soccer organization)
   • Under the Lights Powered by Under Armour (flag football)
2. Impressive Scale:
   • Projecting 635,000 athletes competing at 15 venues in 2024
   • Expecting 1.4 million visitors to attend events
3. Venue Portfolio:
   • Cooperstown All Star Village
   • Ripken Experience Facilities
   • Sports Force Parks at Cedar Point Sports Center
   • Diamond Nation
   • ForeverLawn Sports Complex
4. Leadership Insights: Amanda Shank, EVP of Unrivaled Sports: “This is not ‘let’s roll up an industry.’ This is making strategic investments in what are going to be the next generation of leaders and citizens through our programming.” Wade Martin, CEO of Ripken Baseball division: “This is a really big industry, so the idea that we’re gobbling up the industry is not our plan, nor is it realistic.”

Impact on Youth Sports:

1. Elevating Event Quality: Unrivaled aims to bring professional-level event management and hospitality to youth sports.
2. Resource Sharing: Providing shared services in finance, HR, legal, sales, marketing, and sponsorship across all brands.
3. Community Building: Creating memorable experiences that unite families and communities through sports.
4. Industry Collaboration: Working with destinations and local communities to enhance economic impact and sports tourism.

Future Outlook:

• Expansion into softball and other sports
• Continued acquisitions and growth
• Focus on enhancing family experiences and creating lasting memories

Unrivaled Sports is poised to set new standards in youth sports, leveraging the expertise of industry veterans and the resources of major investors. As the company continues to grow, it promises to bring positive changes to the youth sports landscape, benefiting athletes, families, and communities across the nation.

via: Sports Travel Magazine

photos: Sports Travel Magazine